Netflix's #1 Movie Is the Matt Damon and Ben Affleck Reunion & Best Action Thriller of 2026 So Far
This movie is perfect for those who are tired of endless franchises and are looking for a solid thriller with familiar faces and a smart script.
The first major movie hit of 2026 has already been determined: the crime thriller The Rip, which instantly shot to the top of the Netflix charts.
The movie marks the highly anticipated return of Hollywood's celebrated creative duo, Matt Damon and Ben Affleck, who also served as producers.
Directed by Joe Carnahan, The Rip doesn't attempt to reinvent the genre but offers viewers a solid, intelligent, and gripping detective story with an explosive second half.
What Is 'The Rip' About?
The plot unfolds within the Miami Police Department as they investigate the mysterious murder of Captain Jackie Velez. Her subordinates from the narcotics unit are suspected and try to find the truth themselves.
The new head of the unit, Lieutenant Dane, receives a tip about a stash of cash linked to criminal activity. Upon arriving at the scene with his team, including his longtime partner, Sergeant JD, Dane discovers a sum of money hundreds of times larger than expected.
This discovery triggers a series of events: dirty money sows the seeds of paranoia and mistrust within the once close-knit team.
'The Rip' Masterfully Blends Intricate Detective Thriller With Impressive Action
The first half of The Rip is a pure, tense thriller that is almost devoid of action. Joe Carnahan carefully builds intrigue, immersing viewers in an atmosphere of suspicion and hidden conflicts.
Then, as the climax approaches, the movie abruptly shifts gears – the pent-up tension erupts into dynamic and brutal confrontations, chases, and shootouts.
Importantly, the action here isn't an end in itself, as it is in the John Wick franchise, but rather a logical and powerful continuation of the story. Carnahan takes an old-school approach where the action serves the plot, not the other way around.
'The Rip' Is Worth Watching Just for Its Stellar Cast & the Ben Affleck and Matt Damon Reunion
Affleck and Damon's long-awaited return to starring together is more than just a marketing ploy. The actors demonstrate compelling chemistry as longtime friends and colleagues whose relationship is tested by money and paranoia.
They are joined by a talented supporting cast, including the charismatic Steven Yeun and Golden Globe winner Teyana Taylor.
Ultimately, The Rip is an honest, well-made genre film. It doesn't pretend to be a revolutionary masterpiece, but it delivers with a solid detective story and spectacular yet meaningful action at the right moments.
What Did Critics & Viewers Think of 'The Rip'?
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The Rip has 81% from critics and 68% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
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On IMDb, the movie has a score of 6.9/10.
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On Letterboxd, The Rip scored 3.2/5.0.
